Cookie Policy
About Cookies
This policy explains how Vapourism uses cookies and similar technologies on our website. You can control your cookie preferences through our cookie banner and browser settings.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer or mobile device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and provide information to website owners.
First-Party Cookies
Set directly by Vapourism when you visit our website
Third-Party Cookies
Set by external services we use (e.g., Google Analytics)
2. Types of Cookies We Use
Essential Cookies
ALWAYS ACTIVEThese cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually set in response to actions made by you.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| session_id | Maintains your shopping session | Session |
| cart_token | Stores items in your basket | 2 weeks |
| secure_customer_sig | Authenticates logged-in users | Session |
| age_verification | Remembers age verification status | 1 year |
Analytics Cookies
OPTIONALThese cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website by collecting and reporting information anonymously.
| Service | Purpose | Cookie Names | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Analytics | Website usage statistics | _ga, _ga_*, _gid | 2 years / 24 hours |
| Shopify Analytics | E-commerce performance | _shopify_* | 30 days |
| Hotjar | User behavior analysis | _hjid, _hjSession* | 1 year / 30 min |
Marketing Cookies
OPTIONALThese cookies are used to deliver advertisements more relevant to you and your interests. They may be used to build a profile of your interests.
| Service | Purpose | Cookie Names | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Ads | Targeted advertising | _gcl_*, _gac_* | 90 days |
| Facebook Pixel | Social media advertising | _fbp, _fbc | 3 months |
| Microsoft Clarity | User experience optimization | _clck, _clsk | 1 year / Session |
Functional Cookies
OPTIONALThese cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalization, such as videos, live chat, and remembering your preferences.
| Feature | Purpose | Cookie Names | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preferences | Remember your settings | cookie_preferences | 1 year |
| Live Chat | Customer support widget | intercom_* | 9 months |
| Video Content | YouTube video embedding | VISITOR_INFO1_LIVE | 6 months |
3. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
Cookie Consent Manager
You can change your cookie preferences at any time using our cookie consent tool. This allows you to accept or reject different categories of cookies.
Browser Settings
You can also control cookies through your browser settings:
Chrome
Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies and other site data
Firefox
Options → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
Safari
Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data
Edge
Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Cookies and site data
Note: Disabling essential cookies may affect website functionality, including your ability to shop and complete purchases.
4. Third-Party Cookie Services
We use several third-party services that may set their own cookies. You can learn more about these services and their cookie policies:
5. Your Rights & Choices
Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:
- Be informed about how cookies are used (this policy)
- Give or withdraw consent for non-essential cookies
- Access information about what cookies are stored
- Request deletion of cookies and associated data
- Object to processing based on legitimate interests
- Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)
6. International Data Transfers
Some third-party services may transfer cookie data outside the UK/EEA:
- Google (US): Certified under EU-US Data Privacy Framework
- Shopify (Canada): Covered by adequacy decision
- Facebook (US): Standard Contractual Clauses in place
- All transfers include appropriate safeguards as required by UK GDPR
7. Policy Updates
We may update this cookie policy to reflect changes in technology, legislation, or our practices.
- Check the "Last Updated" date below for recent changes
- Significant changes will be communicated via cookie banner
- Continued use constitutes acceptance of updated policy
8. Contact Us
Questions about our use of cookies?
Email: privacy@vapourism.co.uk
Phone: 0123 456 7890
Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-6PM
Data Protection Officer: privacy@vapourism.co.uk
ICO Complaints: ico.org.uk
Last Updated: 24 September 2025
Version 1.0 - This policy complies with UK GDPR, PECR, and UK cookie regulations